Which wave phenomena subtopics get assessed most in IB Physics Paper 1?

IB Physics First Assessment 2016, Topic 9, “Wave phenomena”, has five subtopics: Simple harmonic motion, single-slit diffraction, interference, resolution, and Doppler effect. This post is part of a larger analysis. I wanted to figure out which topics were mostly assessed in IB Physics Paper 1 exams. I classified all of the questions from 1999 to 2023. In this post, I am particularly interested in “What is the frequency distribution of the questions with respect to subtopic in Topic 9, wave phenomena?” This information may help you with being strategic about planning your studies, especially for revision, especially if the exam is getting closer.

Frequency distribution of questions by wave phenomena subtopics for HL

Between 1999-2023

As shown in Figure 1, interference and Doppler effect subtopics are emphasized more than other subtopics in the entire dataset. Single-slit diffraction and resolution are the least emphasized subtopics. Simple harmonic motion is emphasized twice as much compared to single-slit diffraction or resolution.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_topic_9_Wave_phenomena_HL_1999_2023

Figure 1

Between 2016-2023

As shown in Figure 2, the distribution has somewhat changed between these years. Although, interference remains the most emphasized subtopic, Doppler effect is less emphasized and simple harmonic motion is more emphasized.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_topic_9_Wave_phenomena_HL_2016_2023

Figure 2

Where to go from here?

You may want to check out the other related subtopics:

  1. Simple harmonic motion
  2. Single-slit diffraction
  3. Interference
  4. Resolution
  5. Doppler effect

You can go for the broader analysis of the topics.

  1. Measurement and uncertainties
  2. Mechanics
  3. Thermal physics
  4. Waves
  5. Electricity and magnetism
  6. Circular motion and gravitation
  7. Atomic, nuclear and particle physics
  8. Energy production
  9. Wave phenomena
  10. Fields
  11. Electromagnetic induction
  12. Quantum and nuclear physics

Or check out the analysis for Distribution of Questions by Topic in IB Physics Paper 1

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